The Specialized Enduro is probably one of the most ‘tried, tested and true’ bikes on the market. The company has spent many years refining this bike into a top trail performer, so it’s not surprising that there won’t be major overhauls on either the 27.5” or 29” models for 2018.
To keep things current though, Specialized has made a few key changes. They’ve stretched the top tubes on all the Enduros, and added a geometry-adjustment chip to their rear shock extension. The build specs have been stepped up on a few models, and there are some tricky new components appearing on the 2018 bikes.
During Crankworx I got to preview the new Enduros and take the S-Works version out for a short demo ride. Read on to find out what’s new on next year’s models…
The new 27.5” Enduros now have longer top tubes and taller head tubes, creating a considerable increase in length over 2017 models. Depending on frame size, the reach has increased by 13-19mm.
The rear shock’s top pivot has also been repositioned to increase the bike’s bottom-out resistance via a more progressive curve. A new shock extension now includes a flip-chip that allows for High or Low geometry settings – this changes the BB height by 8mm and the head tube angle by half a degree, giving you the choice of 65.5° or 65°. Travel stays at 160mm front and rear.
The Enduro 29ers have also grown in top tube length, resulting in reach increases between 5-13mm. While lengthening the top tubes, Specialized has made the reach consistent between the two wheel sizes, so a Medium niner should now fit the same as the 27.5” version.
The 29ers also get the flip-chip, which raises/lowers the BB’s by 8mm and provides head tube angles of 66° or 65.5°. On the 29” models the rocker link was redesigned to accommodate the new adjustable shock extension. If you bought an Enduro last year but like the sound of these flip-chip adjustments, the new shock extension for the 27.5” and extension/link combo for the 29ers can be retrofitted to 2017 frames.
Now let’s talk components. In either wheel size, S-Works models now come with Ohlins’ TTX Boost forks, and Pro/Elite models are equipped with the STX Boost fork. The Pro model Enduros get Roval Traverse carbon rims.
The Specialized Wu Dropper Post uses a dual cylinder system that tilts the seat’s nose upwards by 14° as it drops through 150mm of effective travel (shaft travel is actually 125mm, the larger number includes the saddle tilt).
